Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Weather Update

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is currently providing a response to the ongoing flooding in Aberdeenshire.

The most recent weather predictions indicate that the bad weather will continue throughout the week in the North East.

The SFRS have been working with our partners to conduct an on-going strategic review of incident activity, and arrangements are being put in place to prepare for any further flooding throughout the areas of Aberdeenshire.

During this period of unsettled weather, people are advised to stay up to date with the latest Met Office forecasts and National Severe Weather Warnings and find out what to do in severe weather so they can plan ahead.

In formation from the Met Office can be found by visiting: www.metoffice.gov.uk, and SEPA flood updates are available by visiting: http://floodline.sepa.org.uk/floodupdates.

The main risks normally associated with weather patterns such as this are flooding and loss of power due to the wind and rain.

As a result the public may find themselves in a situation where their homes are affected.

The Fire Service would like to remind anyone who finds themselves without power or water entering the home that they can take a few simple steps to ensure they are not placed at any additional risk from fire.

When using candles never leave them unattended and make sure you blow them out when you leave the house or go to bed. Make sure that when in use, candles are secured in a proper holder and away from materials that may catch fire – like curtains, decorations and toys. Other tips include not leaving pets and children alone with candles and using a snuffer or spoon to put them out, instead of blowing them out when embers can fly.

The public can get further information on candle safety by visiting: http://www.firescotland.gov.uk.

If your home suffers a loss of power or is flooded and you are using portable heaters to heat or dry out your home there simple tips to keep safe.

Keep heaters away from curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes, Unplug or switch off portable heaters when you go out or go to bed. Secure portable heaters in position to avoid the risk of them being knocked over.

If you or someone you know is vulnerable or may be at risk from fire you can arrange for a free home fire safety visit with local firefighters by calling 0800 0731 999, or visiting: www.firescotland.gov.uk.